Meet Ash T | Actor & Standup Comedian

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ash T and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ash, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
“Everyone dies, but not everyone really lives”.

I once walked the halls of the renowned M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, donning the white coat of a physician. My days were filled with patients, research, and accolades. Yet, within the confines of my heart, an unyielding yearning beckoned me towards an untrodden path – the path of becoming an actor.

It was during my tenure as a physician that I met Komal Aurora, one of my bright and diligent fellows at the center. We shared the camaraderie of research and countless hours working together. As she prepared to transition to a new job after her fellowship, I witnessed the sparkle in her eyes dim as she struggled to find the opportunities she desired. Encouragement and motivation became my gift to her that day – the assurance that she could achieve anything with unwavering determination and resilience.

But little did I know that those very words would become a mirror reflecting back at my own journey. Despite my career achievements, I realized I had been silently suffocating my lifelong dream of becoming a TV actor. Fear had kept me bound, a prisoner to the shadows of doubt, and I had settled for a life that lacked the vibrancy I craved.

Externally, I seemed to possess it all – a successful career, financial stability, and a marriage that met societal expectations. However, my heart whispered the truth – I was dissatisfied, physically unwell, and longing for more. Life had become monotonous, and I found myself at a crossroads, questioning why I hadn’t taken the reins of my destiny.

It was in a moment of introspection, a night of soul-searching, that I confronted my past and future selves. Memories of my carefree 8-year-old self filled with boundless curiosity and dreams of grand adventures flooded my mind. Yet, as I grew older, I had allowed myself to be molded by society’s expectations, forsaking the very essence of who I was. As I peered into the distant future, a future self burdened with regrets echoed the same sentiment – I had played it safe, shying away from the risks that held the promise of fulfillment.

In that profound moment of clarity, I realized I had to change the trajectory of my life. I had to unshackle the dreams that had been stifled for far too long. And so, I took a leap of faith, enrolling in acting classes at night. The sheer exhilaration of stepping into the world I had longed for enveloped me with pure ecstasy. Laughter came from the depths of my soul, and happiness embraced me like an old friend.

With every step on this new journey, my past and future selves found solace, united in agreement that I was finally on the right path. The craft of acting became my canvas, and I painted my emotions on its surface, rediscovering the colors of life that had dulled over the years.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Underestimating my own abilities has been a recurring theme in my life. Initially, I chose the path of a physician – perhaps because it seemed more comfortable to follow the well-trodden family tradition of doctors than to venture into uncharted waters. The notion of becoming an actor and actually making a living from it felt distant and unattainable. However, what fills me with pride is breaking free from society’s preconceived notions to honor my higher purpose – to spread laughter, inspire belief, and uplift others.

This journey has been an arduous one, marked by the transition from doctor to actor. I found myself starting anew, accepting a downsized lifestyle, and immersing myself in rigorous 100-hour workweeks. Strangely, this challenge feels right – a testament to my resilience and commitment. Regret won’t find me on this path. I’ve chosen to chase the artistic aspirations that danced in my mind as a child.

Stepping into the realm of acting demanded a total shift. Gone were the days of analytical left-brain thinking, replaced by the uncharted territory of creative right-brain expression. The technical precision of medicine gave way to the spontaneity of performing, and the comfort of established routines was replaced by the uncertainty of auditions and live shows.

One of the most striking differences was the embrace of authenticity. As a doctor, precision and predictability were paramount; being robotic, in a way, was essential for accurate diagnoses and treatments. But as an actor, authenticity became a strength. I had to lay bare my emotions, connect deeply with characters, and expose my true self to the audience.

The challenge was immense. To stand on stage or in front of a camera and reveal the depths of my emotions – this was a level of vulnerability I had rarely experienced in my medical career. It meant dismantling the walls I had so carefully built, letting go of the safety of detachment, and allowing myself to be fully present and genuine.

The transformation wasn’t easy. It required breaking down mental barriers, quieting the voice of self-doubt, and embracing the possibility of failure. But with each step into authenticity, I discovered a profound sense of liberation and connection. It was as if I was tapping into a wellspring of human experience that had been untapped for far too long.

Through this journey, I’ve learned that embracing vulnerability doesn’t diminish strength; rather, it magnifies it. It takes tremendous courage to peel back layers and reveal one’s true self, and it’s this very courage that has driven me forward. As I continue to navigate this uncharted path, I carry with me the lessons of resilience and adaptation.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Wisdom Tree–A steep hike to the top but totally worth it because you can see stunning panoramic views of LA. And from there it’s another 16-minute hike to the Hollywood sign.

I’m a huge vegan foodie so I would recommend a trip to Nic’s at Beverly, a Cubano and vegan cookie from Coffee Commissary, CREAMO by Donut Friend, fudge brownie sundae at Dear Bella Creamery, and Just What I Kneaded.

Rooftop bars like EP/LP and Mama Shelter are always fun.

Explore art and culture at the Getty Museum.

Little Tokyo is wild.

For some much needed inspiration, Walk of Fame in Hollywood.

Of course, a trip to Universal Hollywood and Disney is a must.

And finally, how about some live comedy at the Laugh Factory or the Comedy Store?

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Really grateful to have found Brian Thornton in my acting journey early on. He was one of my first acting coaches in Texas and gave me a solid base to build upon. I really respect his dedication to craft and what I would call truthful acting.

And also John Dapolito–his deep insights into helping me my find my inner greatness and always pushing me to be supernatural. Because of his inspiring words and questioning, I took a leap into trying out standup comedy.

Stephanie Feury–her insight is great and she is so dedicated to making all of her actors reach their full potential.

Kacey Roye at Bankston Talent–getting me into some really big rooms that allowed me to book my first movie (Slayers) across some of my acting idols and also a big TV show–Better Call Saul.

Andrea Courtney at Established Artists–never have I worked with a manager as capable, intelligent and hard-working as her. She is my rock and most trusted advisor.

To the amazing casting offices that keep bringing me back to audition: Betty Mae, Feldstein/Paris, Bialy Thomas, Marie McMaster, Vicky Boone, and MidThunder Casting.

My friends Johnny Rey Diaz, Christian Rose, Matthew Peschio, Aaron and Austin Arnold who always have my back.

My amazing LA agent (Rebecca Ek, Eris Talent) who gets me tons of work.

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/big_ash_t

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/asht

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaELdHwi725Sq7w0KWxkgrw

Image Credits
Peter Konerko (main headshot in blue shirt)